Select Date and Travelers

Extras (optional)

Hotel pick-up or round trip fare to the meeting place for guide.

$
18.00

Overview

For Japanese Nara is the hometown of Japanese soul. As the first capital, it prospered to the highest. Full of historic places, temples and shrines, Nara is what is called a treasure place of history. But the emperor suddenly abandoned this place. Why was its civilization lost? You will find emperor's suffering and sorrow in its prosperity.

What to Expect

600 years later, in 790, a young man stepped into the land of the capital. His name was Kukai, a very talented man. His uncle, impressed by his brilliance, encouraged him to study at the capital. He later became the greatest priest Japan has produced. To the young man who just came from a small local town, the capital must have been a dream-like city. He studied at Todaiji Temple and Gangoji Temple. In those days temples in Nara were a kind of national university. The young monks who completed university education were dispatched to local towns as a priest or official. Ancient Nara was a big educational town as well as a political center. 1200 years has passed since then. Now in this city, unlike Tokyo or Osaka, there is nothing new and exciting. No skyscrapers, amusement parks, or entertainment facilities that attract young people. But here in Nara, you can find something nostalgic, lost in modern huge cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make changes after I book?

Yes! If you need to make changes such as removing or adding someone to your booking or changing the date or time of your tour, contact us by phone or email

Starting and ending points of the tour.

After you secure your booking, the starting and ending points of your tour can be customized to your convenience (ex.: your hotel, nearby stations, etc.). Don't worry, we will take care of you! Some tours may have an extra fee for this service, make sure to check the tour page.

What happens after I book a tour?

After booking a tour, the guide will accept (or decline) your booking within 24 hours. Then you will be noticed by email from Triplelights.

Is the price per person or per group?

The price is charged per group. Which means that you make a one-time payment for your entire group and the price will not change if it is less or more people.

Can I add more people to my booking?

Some guides accept extra people (more than the specified number) for an extra charge. Please check for the extras on the tour or booking page, or contact your guide directly to clarify.

Will there be other tourists in my tour?

No. Your tour is private, only for you and your family or friends, there will be no other group of tourists together in your tour.

Can the guide pickup me at the airport?

Yes, but there will be additional charge for that and it is not by car. The guide will go pick you up using public transportations. For further details, please contact your guide directly.

I'm travelling alone. Can I book this tour?

Yes, you can and you may be able to get a discount if you are traveling alone. Price depends on which guide you choose.

“ An excellent guide with a thirst for adventure! ”

Masaki was a wonderful and accommodating guide who was able to put together 2 days of off -the-beaten track adventures to Yuasa and Tsukigase.
For us, traveling to a different country means meaningful interactions with locals and their way of life and this was encapsulated in our 2 days with Masaki. He was detailed oriented and meticulous. We couldn’t have asked for a better traveling companion!

Masaki:

Hi Sandra, thank you for a good review. Hear you are now in Europe. Take care of yourself there. See you!!!

“ Kyoto-Arashiyama, Ryoanji, Gion ”

We can’t thank Masaki enough for his personalized tour. He was knowledgeable about the sites we visited and led us through some very cool zen exercises while at Ryoanji temple. He provided us with some spectacular photos after our tour and when we are concerned about emergency alerts regarding flood conditions, he reached out to us to provide helpful advice. In the end he was more than just a tour guide but a friend.

Masaki:

John, thank you for sending a good review. Glad to hear your safe return. Hope God blesses you and your wonderful family.
Masaki

“ A Magical Experience ”

My 16 year old daughter and I spend a day with Mr. Masaki and we couldn't have asked for a better introduction to Kyoto. We chose Mr. Masaki because of his background as a history teacher, superior english skills and great reviews. He was the greatest guide we could ever imagine - thoughtful, educational and perfect in every way. We learned so much, saw all the most wonderful spots - we left the agenda up to him and only shared our interests to inform the trip schedule. He took us everywhere and is a sheer delight to spend time with. Thank you Mr. Masaki for showing us around. If anyone is considering him as a tour guide - do not hesitate in fact, book him as fast as possible!

“ Excellent Guide, New Friend ”

My family spent months planning to squeeze Kyoto, Nara and Osaka it to 2 days, with Misaki’s help we made that happen. He was kind, informative, organized and a pleasure to talk and walk with. I’d love to spend a month with him and his depth of knowledge. He was excellent at making things fun. He kept my children (11-20yrs) involved and engaged.

“ Superb Guide! ”

With Masaki, you can really get the local's insights on so many things. Even on locations, he will teach you the insider's scoop, places to specifically go... never a dull moment with him! English is exceptional! He has lots of creative suggestions in mind.